2. The uncrowned king means that he has no certain power in politics, but he has great influence. And this influence exceeds the influence of the highest political authorities.
3. Now it refers to journalists. Calling a journalist the uncrowned king means that although a journalist has no specific responsibilities, he is superior everywhere in news activities.
The uncrowned king in sports: refers to an athlete or sports team with superior strength and the ability to win the championship, but not winning it. This is also called the uncrowned king.
The word "uncrowned king" first appeared in Britain in the19th century. At that time, The Times was known as the public opinion authority of British upper class, and its editor-in-chief was often absorbed as a member of the cabinet after his resignation, with a high status. People call these newspaper writers "uncrowned kings".